Toyota RAV4 vs Subaru Forester

With a host of SUVs available to you around the Gastonia, Charlotte, and Lincolnton areas, making the right call requires proper research. At Toyota of Gastonia, we’re always comparing top models to help you determine the right fit. Our Toyota RAV4 vs. Subaru Forester comparison is a great way to introduce yourself to these prominent options.Both the RAV4 and Forester have superb off-roading abilities to go with their customizable performance arrangements. Whether you’re seeking an everyday commuting SUV or an option that can keep up with your active, growing family, the 2020 Toyota RAV4 and Subaru Forester both stake a worthwhile claim!

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RAV4 vs Forester: Horsepower & Torque

Horsepower and torque are two key strength measurements that give you an idea how fast your SUV will get up to speed. The Subaru Forester is reliable, for example, but the Toyota RAV4 veers further into the high-performance end of the spectrum.

The Forester offers a lone 2.5L engine that boasts 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. If you go with the 2.5L 4-cylinder motor for the Toyota RAV4, you can enjoy increased outputs of 203 horsepower and 184 lb-ft of torque.

RAV4 vs Forester: Fuel Economy

For many, performance means getting the most miles you can from each visit to the pump. If fuel economy is a driving factor in your SUV choice, the Toyota RAV4’s hybrid powertrain is an easy call over the Subaru Forester.

If you choose a specific hybrid trim level for the Toyota RAV4, such as the LE Hybrid, your SUV will feature a 2.5L 4-cylinder hybrid motor that reaches 219 combined horsepower. According to EPA estimates, the fuel economy for its hybrid engine measures 41 city MPG/38 highway MPG.¹

While the Subaru Forester shows an appealing amount of efficiency, the EPA estimates for its 2.5L motor check in at 33 city MPG/26 highway MPG—not enough to keep pace with the Toyota.

Toyota RAV4 vs Subaru Forester: Towing Capacity

In almost truck-like fashion, SUVs such as the Toyota RAV4 display a surprising amount of towing capacity. If you enjoy hitching a trailer up to your model for long weekend getaways, the Toyota and it’s available 3,500 pounds of maximum towing capacity is the easy call. No matter the configuration, your Subaru Forester will peak at just 1,500 pounds of maximum towing capacity.

Toyota RAV4 Outdoes the Subaru Forester

With a stronger powertrain, more towing capability, and superior fuel economy, the Toyota RAV4 outpaces the Subaru Forester. If you’re in the SUV market around the Gastonia, Charlotte, and Lincolnton areas, our Toyota of Gastonia team will be happy to introduce you to the 2020 Toyota RAV4 in person!

¹2020 RAV4 EPA-estimated 27 city mpg/35 hwy/30 combined mpg for LE FWD and Limited FWD; 27 city/34 hwy/30 combined mpg for LE AWD; 28 city/35 hwy/30 combined mpg for XLE FWD and XLE Premium; 27 city/33 hwy/29 combined mpg for XLE AWD and XLE Premium AWD; 25 city/33 hwy/28 combined mpg for Adventure; 25 city/32 hwy/27 combined mpg for TRD Off-Road; 25 city/33 hwy/28 combined mpg for Limited AWD; and 41 city/38 hwy/40 combined for LE Hybrid, XLE Hybrid, XSE Hybrid, and Limited Hybrid. Actual mileage will vary.